Nigerian entertainer and activist Charly Boy has spoken out following the renaming of the ‘Charly Boy’ Bus Stop in Bariga to “Olamide Adedeji (Baddo) Bus Stop” by the Bariga Local Council Development Area.
In a statement shared on X, Charly Boy reacted to the development, making it clear that a change in name cannot erase the legacy he represents.
He emphasized that the name “Charly Boy Bus Stop” was not bestowed by politicians but by the community he has stood with and fought for over the years.
“Dem say dey don chang the name of Charly Boy Bus Stop. Hmmm. Very interesting. But let me remind you of something simple: You can rename a place… but you can’t rename a legacy. You can replace the signboard… but you can’t erase the spirit. And you definitely can’t silence a voice that shook your tables for decades!” he wrote.
Charly Boy described the move as rooted in fear—fear of his influence, legacy, and outspoken stance against oppression. He noted that despite the renaming, the impact of his work and the consciousness he stirred in people would continue to live on.
“This is not just about a bus stop. This is about fear. Fear of a boy who refused to bow. Fear of a man who challenged the oppressors. Fear of a man who didn’t beg the system to be accepted,” he stated.
He criticized the decision as an attempt by “timid people” to erase what he symbolizes, adding that his name and influence have long been embedded in the culture and memory of Bariga and beyond.
“Bariga, Gbagada, the entire Lagos knows the truth. That name Charly Boy Bus Stop was not given by politicians. It was named by the people the same people Fada fought for, walked with, and empowered,” he said.
He further reiterated his position as more than just a personality, declaring himself “a movement,” “an institution,” and “a warning.” According to him, his legacy is not defined by a signboard but by the hearts he has influenced and the voices he has awakened.
“They may change the signboard. They may pretend not to remember. But let me remind them Area Fada no dey Finish.”
“He didn’t need to sing sweet songs to be accepted. He didn’t need to wear agbada to beg for titles. He’s a movement. He’s an institution. He’s a warning.”
He concluded with a message to those behind the name change: “You may change the name… But you will NEVER kill the legacy. This name Charly Boy is carved into the history of Nigeria, Written boldly in the streets of Bariga, Etched into the minds of those who still dare to question authority.”
“Legacy isn’t on a signboard. It’s in the hearts you changed, the voices you awakened, and the fear you planted in corrupt souls.”
“So go ahead, change the name. But remember. You can’t change the truth. You can’t erase fire. Area Fada no dey finish. Still here. Still standing. Still fighting. His legacy? Will outlive yaall. @assanwa001.”
